A landmark event unfolded in Benin City as more than 1,000 young people from across Edo State participated in the Jobberman Career Clinic, a comprehensive one-day program designed to equip youth with practical skills, career clarity, and pathways to entrepreneurship.
The event, hosted by Jobberman Nigeria in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, brought together job seekers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and career professionals for immersive training, mentorship, and networking opportunities that attendees described as genuinely transformative.
Opening remarks set the tone for a forward-looking day. Innih Ikhide, Head of Youth Engagement & Learning at Jobberman Nigeria, underscored the urgency of adaptability in today’s evolving labor market.
“The world of work is changing rapidly, so clarity is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you respond. How you position yourself determines your next level,” Ikhide told the audience, highlighting the session’s focus on proactive career management.
Isimeme Whyte, founder of Genius Hub, delivered a keynote address that energized participants to think boldly, innovate, and seize opportunities. He praised the attendees for their ambition and resilience, remarking that young Nigerians are not waiting for handouts but are hungry for knowledge, connections, and fair chances.
“This generation has what it takes to redefine Nigeria’s future,” Whyte remarked, casting a spotlight on the potential within Edo’s youth to drive growth.
Representing the Edo State Government, Kerimu Kelly, Managing Director of EdoJobs, commended the initiative and signaled a willingness for future collaboration to broaden access to opportunities for marginalized youth.
“The government appreciates Jobberman’s efforts and hopes to collaborate next time to make the event even more robust, especially for marginalized youth. Together, we can reach more young people,” Kelly stated, signaling a shared commitment to inclusive youth development.
The program featured a series of breakout sessions designed to translate inspiration into practical capability. Industry experts led focused modules on Interview Etiquette and Personal Branding, Entrepreneurship Development, and Digital Customer Engagement, equipping participants with resume-ready presentation skills, business-building know-how, and digital literacy essential for modern markets.
The event benefited from a high-caliber panel discussion, featuring Dr. Osayuwamen Aladeselu, Jobina Arinze, Kevwe Modupe, and Chika Ike-Ojukwu. The panel delivered candid guidance on navigating today’s workplace, with practical tips on career planning, resilience, and leveraging networks for success.
Participants responded with enthusiasm, sharing anecdotes of clarity and motivation. Rejoice Aghoghore, a University of Benin (UNIBEN) graduate who has recently ventured into entrepreneurship, described the clinic as a turning point.
“I was unsure about my next steps after graduation, but the panel provided clear direction for promoting my business. I feel more confident about the path ahead,” she said, illustrating the clinic’s impact on real-life decision-making.
Inclusion and accessibility were also central to the day’s agenda. Kingsley Eromesele, Chairman of the Edo State Deaf People Association, highlighted the organizers’ commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
“I was glad that people with disabilities were considered. The sessions were accessible and valuable. I hope Jobberman continues to include us in future events,” Eromesele shared, underscoring the event’s inclusive design.